isolation. To prepare for the intervention that is to come, parents must preserve their dignity. We have to avoid exacerbating the situation by uncontrolled emotional displays. If we allow our feelings of victimization to dominate, we cannot maintain the role of the adult in charge. Focusing on the frustration instead of taking the attack personally will often help: “You’re upset with me,” “You’re really frustrated,” “This wasn’t working for you,” “You wanted me to say yes and I said no,” “You’re thinking of all the bad words you can call me,” “Those feelings have got away with you again.”
...more
